You may be staring at decorations that you are too tired to put away. You might be in recovery mode after all the comparison and the emotional roller coaster of the holidays. Or perhaps you are nursing some guilt or disappointment over less-than-ideal family dynamics that were magnified by unrealistic expectations. There is a stark contrast between a Norman Rockwell holiday painting and the reality experienced at most of our family gatherings. Society often screams the message that we are not enough. And there is some truth to that stinging accusation. (Self-improvement books and podcasts top the charts for good reason) But, HE IS ENOUGH. In fact, He is MORE THAN ENOUGH!
Budgeting has never been my spiritual gift and I will admit that there have been times when I have done financial gymnastics or dug for coins at the embarrassing last moment in a checkout line. We should obviously be good stewards, but the treasure already lives within us, and Christ is "the pearl of great price" mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew. We are bearers of the image of God who carry the family name, yet we often feel inferior. A good friend once made this profound comment: "Most people live in their own strength yet never live the treasure." This means that God has imparted His DNA into flawed human beings and the treasure trove of heaven is ours.
At the dawn of a new year, solemn oaths are sworn, and well-intentioned people resolve to change and grow. The minimalist movement gains more traction with each passing year and financial planners capitalize on the fear of impending recession. In our pursuit of personal growth, it is important to remember that even though people and circumstances are constantly changing, God is unchanging because everything that we need is already found in Him. The Bible accounts of provision include unlikely sources like a raven, a boy's lunch sack, a fish with a coin in its mouth, etc. Although New Year's resolutions are wonderful, they can also shift the focus from THE ONE who holds the year in His hand.
So, take inventory of your emotions and be gentle with yourself. Many animals hibernate during the winter, relying on their stores of nutrients and fat to sustain them through the leanest months until spring arrives. Right now, you may feel depleted. Shocking news can suffocate faith if we depend on our own logic and ability. An old song reminds us, "God specializes in things thought impossible." Let us commit to shift the focus from ourselves and zoom in on God's sufficient grace and provision in our lives. Let go of unreasonable expectations and unnecessary pressure and lean in on the nature of God. In spite of rising rent, inflation and a sense of panic, there is not one weak link in the divine supply chain!
Exodus 14:22 (NASB) The sons of Israel went through the midst of the sea on the dry land, and the waters were like a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.
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